(516) 603-4330 jen@jentlelc.com

What Happens at a Lactation Consult?

A lactation consult usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and includes some or all of the following:

  • Review of your and your baby’s medical history as it relates to breastfeeding.
  • Observation of a breastfeeding session.
  • Weighing the baby before and after feeding to assess milk transfer.
  • Demonstration and practice of techniques to help any aspect of breastfeeding that may need improvement (such as latch, milk transfer, pain, etc.)
  • Assessment of your baby’s mouth, tongue, and oral motor function.
  • Visual and/or physical assessment of your breasts and nipples.
  • Observation of a pumping session and assessment of how well your pump parts fit your anatomy.
  • Discussion of how much and what method to use in giving supplemental nutrition to your baby, if indicated.
  • Instruction in the use of any breastfeeding accessories you may already be using or that I may recommend to assist with breastfeeding.
  • Healing and/or prevention measures for sore nipples or breasts.
  • Development of a care plan to help you implement the steps you and I have agreed may improve the aspects of breastfeeding that are not currently satisfactory for you.
  • Referral to other healthcare professionals to evaluate issues beyond my scope of practice, if necessary.